### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀγωνία (agōnía, `{{G74}}`) derives from ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`), which signifies a contest, struggle, race, or combat. Therefore, the core meaning of ἀγωνία refers to the state of intense struggle, profound mental anguish, or extreme distress. It denotes a severe internal conflict or a state of overwhelming anxiety that can manifest physically. Unlike a mere feeling of discomfort, ἀγωνία implies a deep, agonizing internal battle, a state of being under immense pressure or strain. Its semantic range thus encompasses not only emotional pain but also the profound spiritual and psychological turmoil that accompanies such a struggle, often leading to physical exhaustion or visible distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἀγωνία (agōnía, `{{G74}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 22:44]]**: "And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly; and His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
This solitary occurrence is profoundly significant, describing Jesus' experience in the Garden of Gethsemane. The context reveals Jesus facing the imminent reality of the cross and the burden of the world's sin. His *agōnía* here is not merely fear of death, but a deep spiritual and emotional wrestling with the Father's will and the immense weight of atonement. The intensity of this internal struggle is so profound that it causes a rare physiological phenomenon known as hematidrosis, where extreme psychological stress leads to capillaries bursting and blood mixing with sweat. This verse vividly portrays the unparalleled depth of Christ's suffering, a struggle that was both spiritual and physically manifest, demonstrating the full extent of His human experience in the face of divine purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ἀγωνία (agōnía, `{{G74}}`) is enhanced by examining its linguistic relatives and conceptual parallels:
* **ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`)**: The root noun, meaning a contest, struggle, or race. This highlights the combative, intense nature of the *agōnía*.
* **ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnizomai, `{{G75}}`)**: The verb form, meaning "to strive," "to contend," or "to fight." This verb is used in contexts of spiritual struggle (e.g., [[Colossians 1:29]], [[1 Timothy 6:12]]) and athletic competition ([[1 Corinthians 9:25]]). The *agōnía* is the state resulting from such an intense striving.
* **λύπη (lypē, `{{G3077}}`)**: Sorrow, grief. While related, *agōnía* suggests a more intense, active, and internal struggle than passive sorrow.
* **θλῖψις (thlipsis, `{{G2347}}`)**: Tribulation, affliction, distress. This term often refers to external pressures, whereas *agōnía* emphasizes internal anguish.
* **ὀδύνη (odynē, `{{G3601}}`)**: Pain, anguish. This can refer to physical or emotional pain, but *agōnía* specifically points to the *struggle* element.
The concept of Gethsemane itself is inextricably linked to *agōnía*, representing the pinnacle of Christ's pre-crucifixion suffering, where His human will wrestled with the divine will.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of ἀγωνία (agōnía, `{{G74}}`) in [[Luke 22:44]] carries immense theological weight:
* **Christ's Full Humanity**: Jesus' *agōnía* powerfully affirms His true and complete humanity. He was not immune to the deepest forms of human suffering and anguish. His experience in Gethsemane demonstrates that He genuinely entered into the human condition, experiencing profound emotional, psychological, and spiritual distress. This makes Him a sympathetic High Priest ([[Hebrews 4:15]]).
* **The Depth of His Sacrifice**: The agony in Gethsemane was not merely a prelude to the physical crucifixion but an integral part of His redemptive work. It was here that He began to fully bear the weight of sin, wrestling with the cup of God's wrath. His *agōnía* underscores the horrific nature of sin and the immeasurable cost of salvation.
* **Perfect Obedience Amidst Suffering**: Despite the overwhelming anguish, Jesus' ultimate response was one of submission and obedience to the Father's will ("Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done," [[Luke 22:42]]). His *agōnía* highlights the profound spiritual battle He won through perfect obedience, paving the way for our reconciliation with God.
* **A Model for Believers**: While unique in its redemptive scope, Christ's *agōnía* provides a profound example for believers facing their own struggles and trials. It teaches that even in the deepest anguish, faithful prayer and submission to God's will are paramount.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀγωνία (agōnía, `{{G74}}`) is a potent term, appearing only once in the New Testament in [[Luke 22:44]]. Derived from ἀγών (agōn, `{{G73}}`), it denotes a state of intense struggle, profound mental anguish, and extreme distress, often accompanied by physical manifestation. Its singular use describes Jesus' agonizing experience in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He wrestled with the Father's will and the impending burden of sin. Theologically, *agōnía* illuminates Christ's true humanity, the immense depth of His redemptive sacrifice, and His perfect obedience even in the face of overwhelming suffering. It stands as a powerful testament to the cost of redemption and the empathetic nature of our Savior.
TRV